Get ready for a grudge match that could rewrite the history books! Alabama and Oklahoma are set to clash in a first-round College Football Playoff game that promises fireworks, drama, and a whole lot of 'what ifs.' But here's where it gets controversial: Can the Tide avenge their earlier loss to the Sooners, or will Oklahoma pull off the unthinkable and knock off Alabama for the third time in a season? This is the part most people miss—Alabama has never lost to the same team twice in a single season, but Oklahoma is on the brink of making history. Let’s dive into the details and see what’s at stake.
Live Updates, Highlights, and Analysis: Alabama vs. Oklahoma in the CFP First Round
December 19, 2025, at 9:48 pm ET • 1 min read
In a highly anticipated rematch, No. 9 Alabama travels to Norman to face No. 8 Oklahoma in the first round of the College Football Playoff. The Sooners stunned the Tide in Tuscaloosa just a month ago, solidifying their postseason credentials. Now, Alabama (10-3) seeks revenge against Oklahoma (10-2), but the Sooners have their eyes on a rare trifecta against the SEC powerhouse. Bold prediction: This game could be a turning point for both programs, but which way will it go?
Oklahoma’s No. 7 scoring defense has been their backbone, powering them to three wins against ranked opponents. In their November victory, the Sooners forced three turnovers, including a pick-six, to edge out a 23-21 win. Alabama’s offense, hampered by injuries in the backfield, has struggled lately, but key running backs, including starter Jam Miller, are expected to return for this showdown. The big question: Can Oklahoma’s offense find its rhythm after a two-month slump in the SEC? Quarterback John Mateer has had extra time to recover from hand surgery, but will it be enough to spark their attack?
First Half Recap: A Tale of Two Quarters
The game kicked off with Oklahoma dominating early, jumping to a 17-0 lead by the end of the first quarter. John Mateer looked sharp, and the Sooners’ defense stifled Alabama’s offense, holding them to just 12 yards. But the Tide roared back in the second quarter, scoring 17 unanswered points to tie the game at halftime. A blocked punt and Zabien Brown’s 50-yard pick-six were the turning points. Controversial take: Did Oklahoma get too comfortable with their lead, or did Alabama’s adjustments simply outshine the Sooners’ game plan?
Second Half Preview: What’s Next?
With the game tied at 17, the second half promises even more drama. Can Alabama’s running game finally get going, or will Oklahoma’s defense continue to dominate? And what about John Mateer—will he regain his early-season form, or will Alabama’s defense force more costly mistakes? Here’s a thought-provoking question: If Alabama wins, does this solidify their status as comeback kings, or does it expose Oklahoma’s inability to close out big games?
Stay tuned as CBS Sports brings you live updates, highlights, and analysis of this thrilling CFP matchup. Will Alabama complete the biggest comeback in CFP history, or will Oklahoma write a new chapter in their rivalry? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—who do you think will come out on top, and why?
